Cooper has 23 to lead Wagner to 3rd straight win, 71-62

Jan 11, 2018, 09:45 pm

SMITHFIELD, R.I. -- JoJo Cooper had an almost perfect night shooting to total a career-best 23 points, leading Wagner to its third straight win, holding off Bryant 71-62 on Thursday night.

Cooper knocked down all three from long range, made 4 of 4 from the line and 8 of 9 field goal attempts overall. Blake Francis added 16 points and Romone Saunders chipped in 11 while hauling down 10 rebounds for Wagner (11-5, 4-1 Northeast Conference).

The Seahawks bolted to an early lead for a 34-25 halftime advantage. Bryant closed to 47-44 following a Hunter Ware jumper. Saunders responded with a 3-pointer and a layup to push the lead to 52-46 at the 8:10 mark. The Seahawks made seven free throws down the stretch to seal the win.

Sixth-year head coach Bashir Mason is just two games away from winning his 100th career victory. He is 98-74 at Wagner.

Adam Grant led Bryant (2-16, 1-4) with 23 points.